The acclaimed singer, songwriter and guitarist has announced plans to launch a North American solo tour in October, and he'll also be releasing a career-spanning compilation that month focusing on his work outside of his famous group.

Solo Anthology: The Best of Lindsey Buckinghamwill hit stores on October 5 as a three-CD set and digital download, as well as an abridged single CD. The unabridged, 53-track collection will includes highlights from all of Buckingham's solo studio efforts, as well as his contributions to select soundtracks, live performances, unreleased recordings and songs from his 2017 duo album with Christine McVie.

The retrospective features Lindsey's hits "Trouble" and "Go Insane"; his classic from the soundtrack to 1983's National Lampoon's Vacation, "Holiday Road"; and two new songs: "Hunger" and "Ride This Road."

The three-CD version's final disc is made up entirely of live recordings captured at concerts in 2008, 2011 and 2012. These performances include various Buckingham solo songs and the Fleetwood Mac tunes "Never Going Back Again," "Big Love," "Tusk" and "Go Your Own Way."

A six-LP vinyl edition of Solo Anthology: The Best of Lindsey Buckingham will be released on November 23.

Buckingham's solo tour gets underway on October 7 in Portland, Oregon, and is plotted out through a December 9 show in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Tickets for the shows go on sale to the general public starting this Friday, August 17. Fans purchasing tickets to most of the concerts online will receive a free CD or digital copy of the abridged version of Solo Anthology.

]]>RhinoWith his tenure in Fleetwood Mac having recently come to an end, Lindsey Buckingham is ready to go his own way.

The acclaimed singer, songwriter and guitarist has announced plans to launch a North American solo tour in October, and he'll also be releasing a career-spanning compilation that month focusing on his work outside of his famous group.

Solo Anthology: The Best of Lindsey Buckinghamwill hit stores on October 5 as a three-CD set and digital download, as well as an abridged single CD. The unabridged, 53-track collection will includes highlights from all of Buckingham's solo studio efforts, as well as his contributions to select soundtracks, live performances, unreleased recordings and songs from his 2017 duo album with Christine McVie.

The retrospective features Lindsey's hits "Trouble" and "Go Insane"; his classic from the soundtrack to 1983's National Lampoon's Vacation, "Holiday Road"; and two new songs: "Hunger" and "Ride This Road."

The three-CD version's final disc is made up entirely of live recordings captured at concerts in 2008, 2011 and 2012. These performances include various Buckingham solo songs and the Fleetwood Mac tunes "Never Going Back Again," "Big Love," "Tusk" and "Go Your Own Way."

A six-LP vinyl edition of Solo Anthology: The Best of Lindsey Buckingham will be released on November 23.

Buckingham's solo tour gets underway on October 7 in Portland, Oregon, and is plotted out through a December 9 show in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Tickets for the shows go on sale to the general public starting this Friday, August 17. Fans purchasing tickets to most of the concerts online will receive a free CD or digital copy of the abridged version of Solo Anthology.

]]>Restored version of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's "Imagine" film to be screened in theaters in Septemberhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6083766d4e8c14326711be98cbc19dc1
Tue, 14 Aug 2018 12:48:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6083766d4e8c14326711be98cbc19dc1Eagle Rock EntertainmentA restored version of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's 1972 film Imaginewill be shown in theaters across the globe on September 17.

The movie, which was co-directed by Lennon and Ono, boasts a remixed and remastered soundtrack, and the theatrical screening will include 15 minutes of previously unseen bonus footage.

Imagine was filmed mainly at John and Yoko's Tittenhurst Park home in Ascot, U.K., and in New York City, while the former Beatles star was recording his 1971 solo album of the same name. The movie features a variety of vignettes that accompany each song on the album, as well as a few tunes from Ono's own 1971 record, Fly.

The film includes a number of guest appearances by such celebrities as Fred Astaire, Andy Warhol, Dick Cavett, Jack Palance and Lennon's ex-band mate George Harrison.

The extra footage includes scenes from the recording studio, where John is joined by a band that includes Harrison on guitar, veteran session keyboardist Nicky Hopkins, future Yes drummer Alan White and longtime Beatles collaborator Klaus Voormann on bass. The segment features musicians playing the songs "How Do You Sleep?" and "Oh My Love" live and boasts a specially created Dolby Atmos surround-sound mix.

"The people who all worked on Imagine were Peace People and it was so enlightening and exciting all the way through to be one of them," says Yoko in a statement. "Remember, each one of us has the power to change the world."

The movie has been restored frame-by-frame, and the audio has been remixed by Grammy-winning engineer Paul Hicks. Check out a trailer for the flick at Lennon's official YouTube channel.

The movie, which was co-directed by Lennon and Ono, boasts a remixed and remastered soundtrack, and the theatrical screening will include 15 minutes of previously unseen bonus footage.

Imagine was filmed mainly at John and Yoko's Tittenhurst Park home in Ascot, U.K., and in New York City, while the former Beatles star was recording his 1971 solo album of the same name. The movie features a variety of vignettes that accompany each song on the album, as well as a few tunes from Ono's own 1971 record, Fly.

The film includes a number of guest appearances by such celebrities as Fred Astaire, Andy Warhol, Dick Cavett, Jack Palance and Lennon's ex-band mate George Harrison.

The extra footage includes scenes from the recording studio, where John is joined by a band that includes Harrison on guitar, veteran session keyboardist Nicky Hopkins, future Yes drummer Alan White and longtime Beatles collaborator Klaus Voormann on bass. The segment features musicians playing the songs "How Do You Sleep?" and "Oh My Love" live and boasts a specially created Dolby Atmos surround-sound mix.

"The people who all worked on Imagine were Peace People and it was so enlightening and exciting all the way through to be one of them," says Yoko in a statement. "Remember, each one of us has the power to change the world."

The movie has been restored frame-by-frame, and the audio has been remixed by Grammy-winning engineer Paul Hicks. Check out a trailer for the flick at Lennon's official YouTube channel.

In addition, Aretha's ex-husband Glynn Turman, who was married to the legendary singer from 1978 to 1984, also came to see her today, as did Rev. Jesse Jackson.

An "insider" told Us Weekly on Monday, August 13, that the 76-year-old soul singer was "not doing well," and that although she was "hanging in there…recovery is not looking likely."

In 2017, Franklin revealed that she was working on a new album that will feature contributions from Wonder, Elton John, Lionel Richie and her longtime mentor, music mogul Clive Davis. The status of that project isn't known.

]]>Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin in 2012 (Paul Morigi/WireImage)With Aretha Franklin understood to be near death, Us Weekly reports that her friend and collaborator Stevie Wonder visited the Queen of Soul at her Detroit home today. The magazine received the exclusive news from Franklin's longtime publicist Gwendolyn Quinn.

In addition, Aretha's ex-husband Glynn Turman, who was married to the legendary singer from 1978 to 1984, also came to see her today, as did Rev. Jesse Jackson.

An "insider" told Us Weekly on Monday, August 13, that the 76-year-old soul singer was "not doing well," and that although she was "hanging in there…recovery is not looking likely."

In 2017, Franklin revealed that she was working on a new album that will feature contributions from Wonder, Elton John, Lionel Richie and her longtime mentor, music mogul Clive Davis. The status of that project isn't known.

The show, titled Volunteer Jam XX: A Tribute to Charlie Daniels, is headlined by The Charlie Daniels Band, and also features performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons, along with country stars Alabama, The Oak Ridge Boys, Travis Tritt, Chris Young, Sara Evans, Eddie Montgomery and Ricky Skaggs.

In addition, the concert featured a tribute to the late Gregg Allman that included renditions of the Allman Brothers Band classics "Blue Sky" and "Midnight Rider" performed by Gregg's son Devon, ex-Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts' son Duane and former Allmans keyboardist Chuck Leavell.

At the concert, Gibbons sang the ZZ Top classic "La Grange," Lynyrd Skynyrd played their signature song "Sweet Home Alabama," and The Charlie Daniels Band performed their best-known hit, "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." Bringing the concert to a close, all the performers joined together for a performance of the Allman Brothers' "One Way Out."

In related news, a two-CD set and digital album featuring music from the concert special will be released on October 12, and is available for pre-order now. Visit VolunteerJamXX.com for more details.

The show, titled Volunteer Jam XX: A Tribute to Charlie Daniels, is headlined by The Charlie Daniels Band, and also features performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons, along with country stars Alabama, The Oak Ridge Boys, Travis Tritt, Chris Young, Sara Evans, Eddie Montgomery and Ricky Skaggs.

In addition, the concert featured a tribute to the late Gregg Allman that included renditions of the Allman Brothers Band classics "Blue Sky" and "Midnight Rider" performed by Gregg's son Devon, ex-Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts' son Duane and former Allmans keyboardist Chuck Leavell.

At the concert, Gibbons sang the ZZ Top classic "La Grange," Lynyrd Skynyrd played their signature song "Sweet Home Alabama," and The Charlie Daniels Band performed their best-known hit, "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." Bringing the concert to a close, all the performers joined together for a performance of the Allman Brothers' "One Way Out."

In related news, a two-CD set and digital album featuring music from the concert special will be released on October 12, and is available for pre-order now. Visit VolunteerJamXX.com for more details.

Jeffrey R. Staab/CBS via Getty ImagesFollowing a report that Aretha Franklin was "gravely ill," People magazine has now confirmed that the Queen of Soul may not be with us for very much longer.

A longtime friend tells Peoplethat the 76-year-old music legend is very sick, and her death is "imminent," adding, "She has been ill for a long time. She did not want people to know and she didn’t make it public.”

On Monday, Evrod Cassimy, a TV news anchor in Franklin's hometown of Detroit, tweeted, "I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time."

Later that same day, he tweeted, "Just got a chance to speak to Aretha Franklin. She is resting and surrounded by close friends and family."

Franklin's health problems have been going on for nearly a decade. In 2010, she had surgery for a tumor, but the following year, she denied it was related to pancreatic cancer, as had been rumored.

In May of 2013, she canceled two shows to undergo undisclosed medical treatment, and then continued to cancel shows in June, July, August and September of that year. Later that year, she claimed she'd had a "miraculous recovery," but didn't reveal what her illness was.

In 2017, Franklin canceled more shows due to health reasons, and told an audience, "Keep me in your prayers." She also canceled shows this year under doctor's orders. Her most recent performance was in November of 2017, when she sang at the Elton John AIDS Foundation gala in New York City. She appeared to have lost an alarming amount of weight.

Jeffrey R. Staab/CBS via Getty ImagesFollowing a report that Aretha Franklin was "gravely ill," People magazine has now confirmed that the Queen of Soul may not be with us for very much longer.

A longtime friend tells Peoplethat the 76-year-old music legend is very sick, and her death is "imminent," adding, "She has been ill for a long time. She did not want people to know and she didn’t make it public.”

On Monday, Evrod Cassimy, a TV news anchor in Franklin's hometown of Detroit, tweeted, "I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time."

Later that same day, he tweeted, "Just got a chance to speak to Aretha Franklin. She is resting and surrounded by close friends and family."

Franklin's health problems have been going on for nearly a decade. In 2010, she had surgery for a tumor, but the following year, she denied it was related to pancreatic cancer, as had been rumored.

In May of 2013, she canceled two shows to undergo undisclosed medical treatment, and then continued to cancel shows in June, July, August and September of that year. Later that year, she claimed she'd had a "miraculous recovery," but didn't reveal what her illness was.

In 2017, Franklin canceled more shows due to health reasons, and told an audience, "Keep me in your prayers." She also canceled shows this year under doctor's orders. Her most recent performance was in November of 2017, when she sang at the Elton John AIDS Foundation gala in New York City. She appeared to have lost an alarming amount of weight.

The Doors will release an expanded 50th anniversary reissue of their 1968 album, Waiting for the Sun, next month, but the group's guitarist, Robby Krieger, also has plans to unveil a new solo studio album this year.

Krieger tells ABC Radio that the record is done and will be called Robby Krieger's Jam Kitchen. The title happens to be the same as the name of the veteran rocker's jazz-influenced side band, whose members helped him record the album. They include former Frank Zappa band members Tommy Mars and Arthur Barrow.

Krieger reports that he'd been hoping to release the album on his favorite jazz label, Blue Note Records, "but, unfortunately, they're not signing anything right now, so I'm gonna put it out myself." He's planning to release the album "before Christmas."

Meanwhile, Robby tells ABC Radio that a special concert that he and perhaps his surviving Doors band mate, drummer John Densmore, will take part in is being organized for the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

"We're trying to get something together…in October, but it's getting close to the deadline now," Krieger points out. "[T]hey want to do an orchestra thing, you know, playing Doors songs with the orchestra, but I don't know if we're gonna get it or not this year. It might have to wait till next year."

Speaking of concerts, Krieger's main touring group, The Robby Krieger Band, has five shows on its schedule, including performances this Friday in West Dundee, Illinois, and Saturday in Indianapolis. The group, which is fronted by Kreiger's son, Waylon, focuses on playing classic Doors material.

The Doors will release an expanded 50th anniversary reissue of their 1968 album, Waiting for the Sun, next month, but the group's guitarist, Robby Krieger, also has plans to unveil a new solo studio album this year.

Krieger tells ABC Radio that the record is done and will be called Robby Krieger's Jam Kitchen. The title happens to be the same as the name of the veteran rocker's jazz-influenced side band, whose members helped him record the album. They include former Frank Zappa band members Tommy Mars and Arthur Barrow.

Krieger reports that he'd been hoping to release the album on his favorite jazz label, Blue Note Records, "but, unfortunately, they're not signing anything right now, so I'm gonna put it out myself." He's planning to release the album "before Christmas."

Meanwhile, Robby tells ABC Radio that a special concert that he and perhaps his surviving Doors band mate, drummer John Densmore, will take part in is being organized for the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

"We're trying to get something together…in October, but it's getting close to the deadline now," Krieger points out. "[T]hey want to do an orchestra thing, you know, playing Doors songs with the orchestra, but I don't know if we're gonna get it or not this year. It might have to wait till next year."

Speaking of concerts, Krieger's main touring group, The Robby Krieger Band, has five shows on its schedule, including performances this Friday in West Dundee, Illinois, and Saturday in Indianapolis. The group, which is fronted by Kreiger's son, Waylon, focuses on playing classic Doors material.

]]>Bob Weir to launch fall US tour with new group Wolf Bros, featuring Don Was and RatDog's Jay Lanehttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/184a20d6771772e07fff76643c1f0624
Tue, 14 Aug 2018 05:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/184a20d6771772e07fff76643c1f0624Credit: Jay BlakesbergFounding Grateful Dead singer/guitarist Bob Weir has announced plans for a fall U.S. tour with a new outfit called Wolf Bros. The group consists of Weir on vocals and electric and acoustic guitar, acclaimed producer Don Was on bass, and Jay Lane, a longtime member of Bob's band RatDog, on drums.

The trek currently features 22 dates, kicking off October 16 in Reno, Nevada, and running through a November 18-19 engagement at New York City's Beacon Theatre. The outing also includes two-show stands in Chicago; Port Chester, New York; and Boston.

Weir says the Wolf Bros project first came together in the spring of 2015 when Don Was visited Bob's TRI Studios in San Rafael, California, and helped "piece together" the Grateful Dead spinoff group Dead & Company.

"For a while now I've been itchin' to explore our songs in a trio setting. An upright bass, my acoustic or electric guitar and a drummer," explains Weir. "We did some rehearsals this past spring and it was big fun -- and that's the whole idea. We were kickin' around Dead songs as well as tunes from my back pages. I'm pretty sure we're gonna have a big adventure with this."

Prior to Weir's tour with Wolf Bros, Weir has two headlining performances with Dead & Company at the 2018 Lockn' Festival on August 25 and 26 in Arrington, Virginia.

]]>Credit: Jay BlakesbergFounding Grateful Dead singer/guitarist Bob Weir has announced plans for a fall U.S. tour with a new outfit called Wolf Bros. The group consists of Weir on vocals and electric and acoustic guitar, acclaimed producer Don Was on bass, and Jay Lane, a longtime member of Bob's band RatDog, on drums.

The trek currently features 22 dates, kicking off October 16 in Reno, Nevada, and running through a November 18-19 engagement at New York City's Beacon Theatre. The outing also includes two-show stands in Chicago; Port Chester, New York; and Boston.

Weir says the Wolf Bros project first came together in the spring of 2015 when Don Was visited Bob's TRI Studios in San Rafael, California, and helped "piece together" the Grateful Dead spinoff group Dead & Company.

"For a while now I've been itchin' to explore our songs in a trio setting. An upright bass, my acoustic or electric guitar and a drummer," explains Weir. "We did some rehearsals this past spring and it was big fun -- and that's the whole idea. We were kickin' around Dead songs as well as tunes from my back pages. I'm pretty sure we're gonna have a big adventure with this."

Prior to Weir's tour with Wolf Bros, Weir has two headlining performances with Dead & Company at the 2018 Lockn' Festival on August 25 and 26 in Arrington, Virginia.

]]>Oh Perry! Ex-Journey singer launches official website and social media siteshttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/3467ab9496efb9b7eec496018087f6d8
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 18:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/3467ab9496efb9b7eec496018087f6d8Mike Coppola/Getty ImagesLast month, reports emerged claiming that Steve Perry had filmed an interview for CBS Sunday Morning that will air October 7. That fueled rumors that the ex-Journey frontman was finally preparing to release his long-awaited new solo album. Now, a new development has got Steve's fans believin' some news about the singer's new musical project may be coming soon: He's just introduced an official website, StevePerry.com.

The website's homepage boasts an animated note that reads, "I know it's been a long time comin'…," and also features links to Perry's newly launched official social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Among the first replies to Perry's message on his Twitter feed is from founding Journey guitarist Neal Schon, who wrote, "So now hopefully we can have the coffee."

Schon's comment is apparently a reference to an exchange Neal says he had with Perry at the 2017 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where the singer told him they should get together for coffee soon. But Schon told ABC Radio earlier this year that he and Perry hadn't been in touch since the ceremony.

In an April 2017 interview, Perry told ABC Radio that his new album featured songs inspired by his relationship with a woman who passed away from cancer four years earlier.

]]>Mike Coppola/Getty ImagesLast month, reports emerged claiming that Steve Perry had filmed an interview for CBS Sunday Morning that will air October 7. That fueled rumors that the ex-Journey frontman was finally preparing to release his long-awaited new solo album. Now, a new development has got Steve's fans believin' some news about the singer's new musical project may be coming soon: He's just introduced an official website, StevePerry.com.

The website's homepage boasts an animated note that reads, "I know it's been a long time comin'…," and also features links to Perry's newly launched official social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Among the first replies to Perry's message on his Twitter feed is from founding Journey guitarist Neal Schon, who wrote, "So now hopefully we can have the coffee."

Schon's comment is apparently a reference to an exchange Neal says he had with Perry at the 2017 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where the singer told him they should get together for coffee soon. But Schon told ABC Radio earlier this year that he and Perry hadn't been in touch since the ceremony.

In an April 2017 interview, Perry told ABC Radio that his new album featured songs inspired by his relationship with a woman who passed away from cancer four years earlier.

The original versions of those same two songs reached #1 on the same chart back in August of 1980, and "I'm Coming Out" also topped the magazine's Hot 100 tally that year.

In January of this year, a remix of Ross' 1970 #1 Hot 100 hit "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" also reached the top of the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. This marks the first time that an artist has had back-to-back #1 hits on the Dance Club Songs list with tunes that previously reached the top of a Billboard chart.

The "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" remix also appears on the Diamond Diana: The Legacy Collection compilation, which was released in December 2017.

Diana has a few concerts lined up in the northeastern U.S. in the early fall before she kicks off a new run of performances of her Music and Love Las Vegas show on October 31 at the Encore Theater at the Wynn casino and resort.

]]>Universal/MotownEarlier this month, Diana Ross made chart history when a remix single featuring her 1980 hits "I'm Coming Out" and "Upside Down" topped the Billboard Dance Club Songs list.

The original versions of those same two songs reached #1 on the same chart back in August of 1980, and "I'm Coming Out" also topped the magazine's Hot 100 tally that year.

In January of this year, a remix of Ross' 1970 #1 Hot 100 hit "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" also reached the top of the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. This marks the first time that an artist has had back-to-back #1 hits on the Dance Club Songs list with tunes that previously reached the top of a Billboard chart.

The "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" remix also appears on the Diamond Diana: The Legacy Collection compilation, which was released in December 2017.

Diana has a few concerts lined up in the northeastern U.S. in the early fall before she kicks off a new run of performances of her Music and Love Las Vegas show on October 31 at the Encore Theater at the Wynn casino and resort.

]]>Jefferson Airplane's Marty Balin to receive award from former hometown; reveals severity of 2016 heart attackhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f55cee3709acef06702d5744f663fc78
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 18:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f55cee3709acef06702d5744f663fc78Credit: Susan Joy BalinFounding Jefferson Airplane singer Marty Balin will be honored by his former hometown of Mill Valley, California, at the 2018 Milley Awards, scheduled to take place October 21 at Mill Valley Community Center. While discussing the honor in a recent newspaper interview, Balin revealed surprising details of a heart attack he suffered two years ago.

Milley Awards are handed out each year to people who have either been born, lived or worked in Mill Valley and have been supportive of or have made significant achievements in the arts. Balin, who currently resides in Florida, lived in Mill Valley from the late 1960s to the '80s.

In a recent phone interview with the Marin Independent Journal, Balin said of the honor, "Getting a Milley is cool," while admitting with a laugh, "I lived in Mill Valley for 30 some years and had never heard of a Milley."

In the same interview, Balin, 76, revealed that the heart attack he suffered in 2016 was very serious.

Balin told the newspaper that following the attack, he underwent emergency surgery, but suffered complications that left him on life support for a time. He wound up spending five months in the hospital, but reported that he's "doing good now."

"I'm writing songs right and left," he told the paper. "I'm finishing two new albums, and the guys in my band are eager to get back on the road. I can't wait to get back to Mill Valley."

]]>Credit: Susan Joy BalinFounding Jefferson Airplane singer Marty Balin will be honored by his former hometown of Mill Valley, California, at the 2018 Milley Awards, scheduled to take place October 21 at Mill Valley Community Center. While discussing the honor in a recent newspaper interview, Balin revealed surprising details of a heart attack he suffered two years ago.

Milley Awards are handed out each year to people who have either been born, lived or worked in Mill Valley and have been supportive of or have made significant achievements in the arts. Balin, who currently resides in Florida, lived in Mill Valley from the late 1960s to the '80s.

In a recent phone interview with the Marin Independent Journal, Balin said of the honor, "Getting a Milley is cool," while admitting with a laugh, "I lived in Mill Valley for 30 some years and had never heard of a Milley."

In the same interview, Balin, 76, revealed that the heart attack he suffered in 2016 was very serious.

Balin told the newspaper that following the attack, he underwent emergency surgery, but suffered complications that left him on life support for a time. He wound up spending five months in the hospital, but reported that he's "doing good now."

"I'm writing songs right and left," he told the paper. "I'm finishing two new albums, and the guys in my band are eager to get back on the road. I can't wait to get back to Mill Valley."

]]>Stephanie Mills rips into Sam Smith after he says he's not a fan of Michael Jacksonhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6112ac61370e6459b56f92de169935cd
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 17:45:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6112ac61370e6459b56f92de169935cdParas Griffin/Getty ImagesBritish soul singer Sam Smith learned an important lesson over the weekend: Don't come for the King of Pop.

During a recent boat ride with American Idol runner up Adam Lambert, Smith was captured on camera saying, "I don't like Michael Jackson, but this is a good song."

It's not clear if Smith was being serious or not, but when the video went viral, fans of MJ were not pleased, and expressed their anger at Smith, who they believe was heavily influenced by Michael. One of those disgruntled fans was R&B legend Stephanie Mills, who was quick to hit back at Smith with a scathing message.

"Don't come for MICHAEL JACKSON when you wish you have sold as many records and you wish you were the King of Pop like he was," Mills wrote on Instagram, captioning an image of story where Smith dismisses MJ.

"I'm so tired of you people studying our music, and studying our artist and claiming that you don't like our music,"” Mills continued. "Go sit your 1 HIT WONDER a** down and learn how to finish a tour. When you can sell as many records as the king of Pop, Michael Jackson then maybe you can say something."

Before concluding her verbal assault, Mills -- who reportedly dated Jackson back in the '70s -- gave Smith a little bit of advice and a caution.

"So I say to you Mr. Smith have several seats," she retorted, "and come for me if you want to."

]]>Paras Griffin/Getty ImagesBritish soul singer Sam Smith learned an important lesson over the weekend: Don't come for the King of Pop.

During a recent boat ride with American Idol runner up Adam Lambert, Smith was captured on camera saying, "I don't like Michael Jackson, but this is a good song."

It's not clear if Smith was being serious or not, but when the video went viral, fans of MJ were not pleased, and expressed their anger at Smith, who they believe was heavily influenced by Michael. One of those disgruntled fans was R&B legend Stephanie Mills, who was quick to hit back at Smith with a scathing message.

"Don't come for MICHAEL JACKSON when you wish you have sold as many records and you wish you were the King of Pop like he was," Mills wrote on Instagram, captioning an image of story where Smith dismisses MJ.

"I'm so tired of you people studying our music, and studying our artist and claiming that you don't like our music,"” Mills continued. "Go sit your 1 HIT WONDER a** down and learn how to finish a tour. When you can sell as many records as the king of Pop, Michael Jackson then maybe you can say something."

Before concluding her verbal assault, Mills -- who reportedly dated Jackson back in the '70s -- gave Smith a little bit of advice and a caution.

"So I say to you Mr. Smith have several seats," she retorted, "and come for me if you want to."

]]>Aerosmith to play NBC's "Tonight Show" this Thursday, a day after band's previously announced "Today" performancehttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/abf1b304b37a4a634a2d78d1dc99f284
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 17:28:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/abf1b304b37a4a634a2d78d1dc99f284Credit: Ross HalfinOn the heels of Aerosmith's recently announced performance this Wednesday morning on NBC's Today show, the band also has been confirmed as the musical guest on Thursday's episode ofThe Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Pop superstar Ariana Grande and comic actor Nick Kroll also will be guests Thursday on The Tonight Show, which airs at 11:35 p.m. ET/10:35 p.m. CT on NBC.

As previously reported, Aerosmith's Today show performance is free and is be part of the program's summer concert series. The band will be playing in New York City's Rockefeller Plaza. Fans wanting to check out the performance are encouraged to arrive at the site by 5 a.m. ET.

Rumor has it Aerosmith has lined up the television appearances to announce plans for an upcoming Las Vegas residency, something guitarist Joe Perry first talked about during a December 2017 TV interview with NBC's Boston affiliate, WBTS.

Aerosmith's only concert of 2018 so far took place in May at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

Pop superstar Ariana Grande and comic actor Nick Kroll also will be guests Thursday on The Tonight Show, which airs at 11:35 p.m. ET/10:35 p.m. CT on NBC.

As previously reported, Aerosmith's Today show performance is free and is be part of the program's summer concert series. The band will be playing in New York City's Rockefeller Plaza. Fans wanting to check out the performance are encouraged to arrive at the site by 5 a.m. ET.

Rumor has it Aerosmith has lined up the television appearances to announce plans for an upcoming Las Vegas residency, something guitarist Joe Perry first talked about during a December 2017 TV interview with NBC's Boston affiliate, WBTS.

Aerosmith's only concert of 2018 so far took place in May at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

]]>Paris Jackson reveals she had surgery before weekend performance witnessed by grandmother Katherine Jacksonhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/a73d0b29960f2f8d9575c298cbbffb21
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 16:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/a73d0b29960f2f8d9575c298cbbffb21Gabriel Olsen/Getty ImagesIt was a weekend of agony and ecstasy for Paris Jackson, who underwent surgery, and then was thrilled that her grandmother, Katherine Jackson, was able to see her perform at a charity concert.

The 20-year-old daughter of Michael Jackson tweeted that she underwent a procedure Friday, and then performed Saturday with her acoustic rock duo The Soundflowers at the Canyon Session cancer fundraiser in Los Angeles.

She commented, “I had an abscess a little bit smaller than a golfball i believe. was really hard to walk for a few days. they said i could have gone septic, which ain’t good. but i got lucky. i’m ok.”

Paris' pain turned to joy when her 88-year-old grandmother made a rare public appearance, attended the show, and gave her approval.

“i can’t believe my grandma made it to our second live show ever. and she actually liked it!?!!!," Paris wrote on Instagram. "i was sh****ng my pants. i love you so much grandma. i’m so happy we got to play for you and to play for such an incredible cause.”

As previously reported, Paris will join her brother Prince and her late father’s brothers Jackie, Marlon and Tito at the Michael Jackson Diamond Birthday Celebration on August 29 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The event will commemorate what would have been MJ's 60th birthday.

]]>Gabriel Olsen/Getty ImagesIt was a weekend of agony and ecstasy for Paris Jackson, who underwent surgery, and then was thrilled that her grandmother, Katherine Jackson, was able to see her perform at a charity concert.

The 20-year-old daughter of Michael Jackson tweeted that she underwent a procedure Friday, and then performed Saturday with her acoustic rock duo The Soundflowers at the Canyon Session cancer fundraiser in Los Angeles.

She commented, “I had an abscess a little bit smaller than a golfball i believe. was really hard to walk for a few days. they said i could have gone septic, which ain’t good. but i got lucky. i’m ok.”

Paris' pain turned to joy when her 88-year-old grandmother made a rare public appearance, attended the show, and gave her approval.

“i can’t believe my grandma made it to our second live show ever. and she actually liked it!?!!!," Paris wrote on Instagram. "i was sh****ng my pants. i love you so much grandma. i’m so happy we got to play for you and to play for such an incredible cause.”

As previously reported, Paris will join her brother Prince and her late father’s brothers Jackie, Marlon and Tito at the Michael Jackson Diamond Birthday Celebration on August 29 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The event will commemorate what would have been MJ's 60th birthday.

]]>New John Mellencamp art exhibit opening next month in Youngstown, Ohiohttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/faf0da6b7cd70cd823fb7dc6a0b02fca
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 14:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/faf0da6b7cd70cd823fb7dc6a0b02fcaCredit: Marc HauserA new exhibition of John Mellencamp's latest paintings, dubbed "John Mellencamp: Expressionist," will open on September 20 at The Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio. Admission to the exhibit, which will be on display through November 18, is free, as is entry to the museum itself.

"John Mellencamp: Expressionist" will feature at 42 works by the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, including large oil paintings and mixed-media pieces, that reflect the various topics and concerns the singer-songwriter also focuses on in his musical compositions.

In addition, Zona says Mellencamp's paintings are "rich in spellbinding imagery, enriched by his understanding of visual organization and the power of color."

A private artist reception exclusively for Butler museum members will be held to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. People with active memberships prior to September 1 of this year will receive invitations via mail, and will have to make a reservation to attend. Museum membership info is available at ButlerArt.com.

A full-color catalog is being put together to accompany the "John Mellencamp: Expressionist" exhibit featuring a new interview with Mellencamp, commentary by Zona and an essay by award-winning cultural writer David Shirey. The book will be sold via the Butler Museum Stores beginning September 20.

A previous art exhibit by Mellencamp, titled simply, "The Paintings of John Mellencamp," was displayed at the Butler Institute's Trumbull Branch in Howland, Ohio, from November 2013 to January 2014.

"John Mellencamp: Expressionist" will feature at 42 works by the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, including large oil paintings and mixed-media pieces, that reflect the various topics and concerns the singer-songwriter also focuses on in his musical compositions.

In addition, Zona says Mellencamp's paintings are "rich in spellbinding imagery, enriched by his understanding of visual organization and the power of color."

A private artist reception exclusively for Butler museum members will be held to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. People with active memberships prior to September 1 of this year will receive invitations via mail, and will have to make a reservation to attend. Museum membership info is available at ButlerArt.com.

A full-color catalog is being put together to accompany the "John Mellencamp: Expressionist" exhibit featuring a new interview with Mellencamp, commentary by Zona and an essay by award-winning cultural writer David Shirey. The book will be sold via the Butler Museum Stores beginning September 20.

A previous art exhibit by Mellencamp, titled simply, "The Paintings of John Mellencamp," was displayed at the Butler Institute's Trumbull Branch in Howland, Ohio, from November 2013 to January 2014.

Check out a lyrics video for the R&B-flavored tune at Doyle's official YouTube channel. "Everything You Need" is available for purchase now digitally, and fans pre-ordering Shades also will receive a free download of the track instantly.

Other guest artists contributing to the album include Tedeschi Trucks Band -- whose lead guitarist, Derek Trucks, also has toured with Clapton -- and Norah Jones.

"Without appearing immodest, I can admit that I've led a pretty charmed life," Bramhall says in a statement. "I'm thrilled and honored to have all of these incredible people guest on my record."

Doyle played guitar in Eric's touring band for more than 10 years, and he's also appeared on most of the studio albums Clapton has released since 2000. Other artists who Bramhall has worked with include Elton John, Gregg Allman, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Michael McDonald, Sheryl Crow, Lisa Marie Presley, Boz Scaggs, Neil Finn and Tedeschi Trucks Band.

As previously reported, Clapton also is featured on the upcoming album by the veteran U.K. space-rock band Hawkwind, Road to Utopia, playing guitar on an updated version of the group's 1972 song "The Watcher."

]]>Kevin Mazur/WireImageEric Clapton lends his ample guitar talents to a brand-new song by Texas singer, songwriter and guitarist Doyle Bramhall II, a longtime studio collaborator and former member of Clapton's touring band.

Check out a lyrics video for the R&B-flavored tune at Doyle's official YouTube channel. "Everything You Need" is available for purchase now digitally, and fans pre-ordering Shades also will receive a free download of the track instantly.

Other guest artists contributing to the album include Tedeschi Trucks Band -- whose lead guitarist, Derek Trucks, also has toured with Clapton -- and Norah Jones.

"Without appearing immodest, I can admit that I've led a pretty charmed life," Bramhall says in a statement. "I'm thrilled and honored to have all of these incredible people guest on my record."

Doyle played guitar in Eric's touring band for more than 10 years, and he's also appeared on most of the studio albums Clapton has released since 2000. Other artists who Bramhall has worked with include Elton John, Gregg Allman, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Michael McDonald, Sheryl Crow, Lisa Marie Presley, Boz Scaggs, Neil Finn and Tedeschi Trucks Band.

As previously reported, Clapton also is featured on the upcoming album by the veteran U.K. space-rock band Hawkwind, Road to Utopia, playing guitar on an updated version of the group's 1972 song "The Watcher."

The website Showbiz 411 is the originator of the report about the 76-year-old music legend, which news outlets worldwide are citing. ABC News has been unable to confirm the report as of Monday morning.

Franklin's health has been a concern for the past few years, causing a spate of concert cancellations. In 2017, she appeared alarmingly thin but claimed it was a side effect of an unspecified medication. After announcing she was retiring from the road in 2017, Franklin still scheduled shows for 2018 but in March, she was ordered by her doctors to cancel all shows and rest for two months.

Franklin's classic recordings include the songs "Respect," "Chain of Fools," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," and "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)," which helped her cross over to the pop charts. She won her first Grammy in 1968, the same year she appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. She'd eventually go on to win a total of 20 Grammys, including special Grammys awarded outside of competition, and chart more than 73 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.

Despite rumors of serious health problems, Franklin has never publicly spoken about her ailments.

]]>Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tribeca Film FestivalArethaFranklin is reportedly "gravely ill" and surrounded by family and friends in Detroit.

The website Showbiz 411 is the originator of the report about the 76-year-old music legend, which news outlets worldwide are citing. ABC News has been unable to confirm the report as of Monday morning.

Franklin's health has been a concern for the past few years, causing a spate of concert cancellations. In 2017, she appeared alarmingly thin but claimed it was a side effect of an unspecified medication. After announcing she was retiring from the road in 2017, Franklin still scheduled shows for 2018 but in March, she was ordered by her doctors to cancel all shows and rest for two months.

Franklin's classic recordings include the songs "Respect," "Chain of Fools," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," and "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)," which helped her cross over to the pop charts. She won her first Grammy in 1968, the same year she appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. She'd eventually go on to win a total of 20 Grammys, including special Grammys awarded outside of competition, and chart more than 73 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.

Despite rumors of serious health problems, Franklin has never publicly spoken about her ailments.

]]>Monkees' Michael Nesmith releases new live album with his country-rock group The First National Band Reduxhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6a92f019207cb42f60cf8cc850855180
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 05:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6a92f019207cb42f60cf8cc8508551807a Records

While The Monkees' Michael Nesmith currently is recovering from recent heart surgery, he's also preparing to launch a tour next month with a new version of his early-'70s country-rock group, The First National Band. Meanwhile, a live album documenting a January 2018 concert by Nesmith and The First National Band Redux at the famed Los Angeles-area venue The Troubadour has just been released on CD and as a two-LP vinyl set.

Live at The Troubadour features mostly renditions of songs from Nesmith and The First National Band's three studio albums -- 1970's Magnetic South and Loose Salute and 1971's Nevada Fighter. It also includes a versions of the Nesmith-penned Monkees tune "Papa Gene's Blues and Mike's "Different Drum," which the Linda Ronstadt-fronted The Stone Poneys made a top-20 hit in 1967.

"I've never been happier with a record," says Nesmith. "I've never been more proud and pleased to get it out in front of people, and play it and leave it with the people, in their care. It's at the top of my form. It's the best I can do. So if I die now, that was it, guys."

The Live at The Troubadour CD comes housed in a digipak set and includes a 16-page booklet with rare photos and extensive liner notes penned by Nesmith. The LP set is pressed on opaque gold vinyl, and includes the photos and liner notes. Signed copies of both can be purchased at VideoRanch3D.com.

As previously reported, 75-year-old Nesmith underwent a quadruple bypass operation after falling ill before a June 21 concert near Philadelphia while touring with his Monkees band mate Micky Dolenz. The last four dates of the trek were postponed.

While The Monkees' Michael Nesmith currently is recovering from recent heart surgery, he's also preparing to launch a tour next month with a new version of his early-'70s country-rock group, The First National Band. Meanwhile, a live album documenting a January 2018 concert by Nesmith and The First National Band Redux at the famed Los Angeles-area venue The Troubadour has just been released on CD and as a two-LP vinyl set.

Live at The Troubadour features mostly renditions of songs from Nesmith and The First National Band's three studio albums -- 1970's Magnetic South and Loose Salute and 1971's Nevada Fighter. It also includes a versions of the Nesmith-penned Monkees tune "Papa Gene's Blues and Mike's "Different Drum," which the Linda Ronstadt-fronted The Stone Poneys made a top-20 hit in 1967.

"I've never been happier with a record," says Nesmith. "I've never been more proud and pleased to get it out in front of people, and play it and leave it with the people, in their care. It's at the top of my form. It's the best I can do. So if I die now, that was it, guys."

The Live at The Troubadour CD comes housed in a digipak set and includes a 16-page booklet with rare photos and extensive liner notes penned by Nesmith. The LP set is pressed on opaque gold vinyl, and includes the photos and liner notes. Signed copies of both can be purchased at VideoRanch3D.com.

As previously reported, 75-year-old Nesmith underwent a quadruple bypass operation after falling ill before a June 21 concert near Philadelphia while touring with his Monkees band mate Micky Dolenz. The last four dates of the trek were postponed.

Back in June, when Paul McCartney announced the details of his upcoming studio album, Egypt Station, he also released a pair of tracks from the record digitally -- "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me." Now, it appears that the former Beatles star is preparing to unveil another song from Egypt Station this week.

A message posted on McCartney's social media pages over the weekend reports that "Fuh You" will be "departing" on Wednesday, August 15, at 5 p.m. British Standard Time, which is 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT. The note is accompanied by an eight-second snippet of the song.

In an interview with DIY magazine in June, McCartney revealed that he collaborated on "Fuh You" with OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder. Sir Paul also has performed the song at a couple of the gigs he recently at Abbey Road Studios in London and the Cavern Club in Liverpool, U.K.

Back in June, when Paul McCartney announced the details of his upcoming studio album, Egypt Station, he also released a pair of tracks from the record digitally -- "I Don't Know" and "Come On to Me." Now, it appears that the former Beatles star is preparing to unveil another song from Egypt Station this week.

A message posted on McCartney's social media pages over the weekend reports that "Fuh You" will be "departing" on Wednesday, August 15, at 5 p.m. British Standard Time, which is 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT. The note is accompanied by an eight-second snippet of the song.

In an interview with DIY magazine in June, McCartney revealed that he collaborated on "Fuh You" with OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder. Sir Paul also has performed the song at a couple of the gigs he recently at Abbey Road Studios in London and the Cavern Club in Liverpool, U.K.

]]>U2 releases EP featuring four remixes of new song "Summer of Love"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f5d5a608dc7e0c16e7428f37977fff2f
Fri, 10 Aug 2018 18:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f5d5a608dc7e0c16e7428f37977fff2fInterscope/UniversalLast month, U2 released a digital EP featuring three remixes of its new song "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way." Now, the Irish rockers have unleashed a new digital EP boasting four reworked versions of another recent tune, "Summer of Love."

The "Summer of Love" remixes were created, respectively, by German DJ and producer Robin Schulz; the U.K. production duo TILT with U.K. producer Danny Stubbs; frequent U2 collaborator Howie B; and Austrian producer HP Hoeger and London DJ Rusty Egan.

The latter duo also were responsible for the three aforementioned "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way" remixes, which recently topped the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The Summer of Love (Remixes) EPis available now at digital music sellers and via streaming services. The original versions of "Summer of Love" and "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way" both appear on U2's latest studio album, Songs of Experience, which was released last December.

]]>Interscope/UniversalLast month, U2 released a digital EP featuring three remixes of its new song "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way." Now, the Irish rockers have unleashed a new digital EP boasting four reworked versions of another recent tune, "Summer of Love."

The "Summer of Love" remixes were created, respectively, by German DJ and producer Robin Schulz; the U.K. production duo TILT with U.K. producer Danny Stubbs; frequent U2 collaborator Howie B; and Austrian producer HP Hoeger and London DJ Rusty Egan.

The latter duo also were responsible for the three aforementioned "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way" remixes, which recently topped the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The Summer of Love (Remixes) EPis available now at digital music sellers and via streaming services. The original versions of "Summer of Love" and "Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way" both appear on U2's latest studio album, Songs of Experience, which was released last December.

]]>ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons lines up fall tour to promote upcoming solo album, "The Big Bad Blues"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/504441fccf25edafab1bb976588399ac
Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/504441fccf25edafab1bb976588399acCredit: Blain ClausenZZ Top frontman Billy Gibbonshas announced a new tour in support of his upcoming second solo album, The Big Bad Blues, and it's gonna be bad and nationwide! The trek kicks off October 13 in Riverside, Iowa, and makes its way around the U.S., plus one stop in Canada, before wrapping up November 18 in West Hollywood, California.

Gibbons' backing back on this tour is completely different from The BFGs, the group who joined Billy on his trek supporting his first solo effort, 2015's Perfectamundo. The new outfit features ex-Guns N' Roses drummer Matt Sorum, left-handed guitar whiz Austin Hanks, and DJ and harmonica player Elwood Francis.

Tickets for the concerts go on sale to the general public starting this Tuesday, August 14.

As previously reported, The Big Bad Blueswill be released on September 21, and is an 11-track collection that finds Gibbons celebrating his love of the blues and early rock 'n' roll. It features six original tunes and five covers, including songs by Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Bo's "Maracca Man," Jerome Green.

The album's lead track, "Missin' Yo' Kissin'," was written by Billy's wife, Gilly Stillwater. A new lyrics video for the tune has premiered on Concord Records' YouTube channel. The clip features a photos of Gibbons and images of the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers' 1934 Ford "Whiskey Runner" hot rod. Billy previously released a lyrics video for another tune from The Big Bad Blues, a cover of Waters' "Rollin' and Tumblin'." Fans pre-ordering the album will receive free instant downloads of both tracks.

Prior to Gibbons' solo tour, ZZ Top will wrap up a U.S. summer trek that's scheduled through an August 30 gig in Portland, Maine.

]]>Credit: Blain ClausenZZ Top frontman Billy Gibbonshas announced a new tour in support of his upcoming second solo album, The Big Bad Blues, and it's gonna be bad and nationwide! The trek kicks off October 13 in Riverside, Iowa, and makes its way around the U.S., plus one stop in Canada, before wrapping up November 18 in West Hollywood, California.

Gibbons' backing back on this tour is completely different from The BFGs, the group who joined Billy on his trek supporting his first solo effort, 2015's Perfectamundo. The new outfit features ex-Guns N' Roses drummer Matt Sorum, left-handed guitar whiz Austin Hanks, and DJ and harmonica player Elwood Francis.

Tickets for the concerts go on sale to the general public starting this Tuesday, August 14.

As previously reported, The Big Bad Blueswill be released on September 21, and is an 11-track collection that finds Gibbons celebrating his love of the blues and early rock 'n' roll. It features six original tunes and five covers, including songs by Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Bo's "Maracca Man," Jerome Green.

The album's lead track, "Missin' Yo' Kissin'," was written by Billy's wife, Gilly Stillwater. A new lyrics video for the tune has premiered on Concord Records' YouTube channel. The clip features a photos of Gibbons and images of the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers' 1934 Ford "Whiskey Runner" hot rod. Billy previously released a lyrics video for another tune from The Big Bad Blues, a cover of Waters' "Rollin' and Tumblin'." Fans pre-ordering the album will receive free instant downloads of both tracks.

Prior to Gibbons' solo tour, ZZ Top will wrap up a U.S. summer trek that's scheduled through an August 30 gig in Portland, Maine.

Earlier this year, founding Kinks guitarist Dave Davies told ABC Radio that he was preparing a new archival album of "really great" solo songs titled Decade that he planned to release later in 2018. Now, Davies has announced via his official Facebook page that the album will hit stores on October 12, and he also has unveiled its cover art.

Dave revealed to ABC Radio that Decade features "unreleased material from [throughout] the '70s," including at last one track recorded but not used for his 1980 debut solo album, AFL1-3603. He added that the album was produced by his son Simon, whom he says has "done an incredible job on it, sonically."

According to a rep for Davies, comedian and actor Gregg Turkington, who's appeared in the Adult Swim series Decker and the film Ant-Man, has written the album's liner notes.

Musicians who contributed to the tracks include longtime Kinks drummer Mick Avory, who appears on a song called "If You Are Leaving." Dave's nephew, Phil Palmer, a guitarist who's worked with Dire Straits, Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey and many others, also is featured on a few tracks. Decade ends with a song called "This Precious Time," a demo version of which appears on the 2001 compilation Fragile under the title "Long Lonely Road."

Davies' most recent album, a collaborative project with his son Russ called Open Road, was released in March 2017.

Here's the full track list for Decade:

"Cradle to the Grave""Midnight Sun""Islands""If You Are Leaving""Web of Time""Mystic Woman""Give You All My Love""The Journey""Within Each Day""Same Old Blues""Mr. Moon""Shadows""This Precious Time (Long Lonely Road)"

Earlier this year, founding Kinks guitarist Dave Davies told ABC Radio that he was preparing a new archival album of "really great" solo songs titled Decade that he planned to release later in 2018. Now, Davies has announced via his official Facebook page that the album will hit stores on October 12, and he also has unveiled its cover art.

Dave revealed to ABC Radio that Decade features "unreleased material from [throughout] the '70s," including at last one track recorded but not used for his 1980 debut solo album, AFL1-3603. He added that the album was produced by his son Simon, whom he says has "done an incredible job on it, sonically."

According to a rep for Davies, comedian and actor Gregg Turkington, who's appeared in the Adult Swim series Decker and the film Ant-Man, has written the album's liner notes.

Musicians who contributed to the tracks include longtime Kinks drummer Mick Avory, who appears on a song called "If You Are Leaving." Dave's nephew, Phil Palmer, a guitarist who's worked with Dire Straits, Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey and many others, also is featured on a few tracks. Decade ends with a song called "This Precious Time," a demo version of which appears on the 2001 compilation Fragile under the title "Long Lonely Road."

Davies' most recent album, a collaborative project with his son Russ called Open Road, was released in March 2017.

Here's the full track list for Decade:

"Cradle to the Grave""Midnight Sun""Islands""If You Are Leaving""Web of Time""Mystic Woman""Give You All My Love""The Journey""Within Each Day""Same Old Blues""Mr. Moon""Shadows""This Precious Time (Long Lonely Road)"

]]>Bless the rains: Toto releases cover of Weezer's "Hash Pipe"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/7c315e2b5079f554ae99f8ba81f41a4e
Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:30:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/7c315e2b5079f554ae99f8ba81f41a4eUniversal Music GroupThe circle is finally complete. Following Weezer's viral cover of Toto's "Africa," the veteran pop-rock band has released their take on Rivers Cuomo and company's "Hash Pipe," available now on digital outlets.

Weezer shared their version of "Africa," as well as a cover of Toto's "Rosanna," in May following a long-running campaign stated by a teenage fan. The "Africa" cover has since become a big hit for Weezer, giving them their first number-one single on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart in 10 years.

"We were blown away at the response Weezer got doing our old songs," says Toto guitarist Steve Lukather. "They did a good job too...It seemed only right that WE, Toto, did a version of one of their songs, so we started digging around, listening to a bunch of their music, which I have grown to like a lot."

Toto previously debuted the "Hash Pipe" cover live during a show in Vancouver last month.

Weezer, meanwhile, has been rocking "Africa" all summer on tour, and during a stop in Los Angeles, the band was joined by none other than "Weird Al" Yankovic to perform the much-beloved '80s hit.

]]>Universal Music GroupThe circle is finally complete. Following Weezer's viral cover of Toto's "Africa," the veteran pop-rock band has released their take on Rivers Cuomo and company's "Hash Pipe," available now on digital outlets.

Weezer shared their version of "Africa," as well as a cover of Toto's "Rosanna," in May following a long-running campaign stated by a teenage fan. The "Africa" cover has since become a big hit for Weezer, giving them their first number-one single on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart in 10 years.

"We were blown away at the response Weezer got doing our old songs," says Toto guitarist Steve Lukather. "They did a good job too...It seemed only right that WE, Toto, did a version of one of their songs, so we started digging around, listening to a bunch of their music, which I have grown to like a lot."

Toto previously debuted the "Hash Pipe" cover live during a show in Vancouver last month.

Weezer, meanwhile, has been rocking "Africa" all summer on tour, and during a stop in Los Angeles, the band was joined by none other than "Weird Al" Yankovic to perform the much-beloved '80s hit.

]]>The First Time!: Foreigner musical "Jukebox Hero" premieres tonight in Calgary, Canadahttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f5ba805716ec4fb3c0de036f8103b0ad
Fri, 10 Aug 2018 05:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/f5ba805716ec4fb3c0de036f8103b0adCourtesy of Annerin ProductionsThe new musical Jukebox Hero, which features a variety of classic hits by Foreigner, comes alive tonight when it gets its world premiere at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary, Canada.

Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones, who wrote or co-wrote all of the tunes performed in the show, tells ABC Radio, "People have been asking me for years about doing [a musical featuring songs by the group], so I think we've waited until the cycle is almost complete. But…I think the songs will speak for themselves."

Jukebox Hero: The Musical was written by Ian La Frenais and Dick Clement, whose credits include the films The Commitments and Across the Universe, the HBO series Tracy Takes On… and many other projects. Jones says he felt "very fortunate" to get the longtime collaborators to contribute to the production.

Among the many Foreigner tunes incorporated into the show are "I Want to Know What Love Is," "Cold as Ice," "Waiting for a Girl Like You," "Hot Blooded," "Urgent," "Head Games," "Feels Like the First Time" and, of course, "Jukebox Hero."

According to an official synopsis, the musical is set in Blaydon, Pennsylvania, an economically depressed town where a music star named Ryan Perry grew up but has rarely visited since he left to find fame and fortune. Perry's father and girlfriend appeal to him to return to Blaydon to stage a benefit concert to help the town's financially struggling residents.

Jukebox Hero: The Musical is scheduled to run for three performances in Calgary, from August 10 to August 12, followed by a four-performance engagement, August 16-19, in Edmonton, Canada, and a five-show stand in February 2019 in Toronto. You can purchase tickets by visiting JukeboxHeroMusical.com and ForeignerOnline.com.

]]>Courtesy of Annerin ProductionsThe new musical Jukebox Hero, which features a variety of classic hits by Foreigner, comes alive tonight when it gets its world premiere at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary, Canada.

Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones, who wrote or co-wrote all of the tunes performed in the show, tells ABC Radio, "People have been asking me for years about doing [a musical featuring songs by the group], so I think we've waited until the cycle is almost complete. But…I think the songs will speak for themselves."

Jukebox Hero: The Musical was written by Ian La Frenais and Dick Clement, whose credits include the films The Commitments and Across the Universe, the HBO series Tracy Takes On… and many other projects. Jones says he felt "very fortunate" to get the longtime collaborators to contribute to the production.

Among the many Foreigner tunes incorporated into the show are "I Want to Know What Love Is," "Cold as Ice," "Waiting for a Girl Like You," "Hot Blooded," "Urgent," "Head Games," "Feels Like the First Time" and, of course, "Jukebox Hero."

According to an official synopsis, the musical is set in Blaydon, Pennsylvania, an economically depressed town where a music star named Ryan Perry grew up but has rarely visited since he left to find fame and fortune. Perry's father and girlfriend appeal to him to return to Blaydon to stage a benefit concert to help the town's financially struggling residents.

Jukebox Hero: The Musical is scheduled to run for three performances in Calgary, from August 10 to August 12, followed by a four-performance engagement, August 16-19, in Edmonton, Canada, and a five-show stand in February 2019 in Toronto. You can purchase tickets by visiting JukeboxHeroMusical.com and ForeignerOnline.com.

]]>Watch Elvis Presley sing with daughter Lisa Marie in new studio-created gospel duet "Where No One Stands Alone"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/bd14e8e9b680fe03b2b0bf52dcb52baa
Thu, 09 Aug 2018 18:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/bd14e8e9b680fe03b2b0bf52dcb52baaRCA/Legacy RecordingsThe unique, new Elvis Presley album Where No One Stands Alone celebrating the late rock 'n' roll legend's love of gospel music will be released this Friday, August 10. The album's title track is a specially created duet between Presley and his daughter, Lisa Marie, and a new lyric video for the tune debuted this week on Elvis' official VEVO YouTube channel.

The clip combines archival performance footage, home movies and vintage photos of Elvis with new scenes of Lisa Marie Presley singing in a studio.

All 14 tracks on the Where No One Stands Alone album feature archival vocal performances by Presley paired with new instrumental and vocal accompaniment, including contributions from well-known musicians and backing singers who worked with Elvis in the studio or onstage.

Among the backing vocalists who contributed to the album are Darlene Love, Dr. Cissy Houston and members of Presley's backing-vocal groups The Imperials and The Stamps. Elvis' original version of "Where No One Stands Alone" appeared on his 1967 gospel album How Great Thou Art. The new record also includes updated renditions of Elvis' 1965 hit "Crying in the Chapel," the Leiber & Stoller-penned gospel rocker "Saved," the classic ballad "You'll Never Walk Alone" and the traditional hymn "Amazing Grace."

Where No One Stands Alone is available on CD, digitally and as a vinyl LP. In addition, a limited-edition blue-vinyl LP and a cassette version of the album can be purchased exclusively at the Graceland online store.

Meanwhile, Lisa Marie will take part in a special "Where No One Stands Alone" concert event taking place Saturday, August 11, at 1 p.m. local time at the Graceland Soundstage in Memphis. The show is part of the just-launched Elvis Week 2018 celebration. Visit ElvisWeek.com for more details.

The clip combines archival performance footage, home movies and vintage photos of Elvis with new scenes of Lisa Marie Presley singing in a studio.

All 14 tracks on the Where No One Stands Alone album feature archival vocal performances by Presley paired with new instrumental and vocal accompaniment, including contributions from well-known musicians and backing singers who worked with Elvis in the studio or onstage.

Among the backing vocalists who contributed to the album are Darlene Love, Dr. Cissy Houston and members of Presley's backing-vocal groups The Imperials and The Stamps. Elvis' original version of "Where No One Stands Alone" appeared on his 1967 gospel album How Great Thou Art. The new record also includes updated renditions of Elvis' 1965 hit "Crying in the Chapel," the Leiber & Stoller-penned gospel rocker "Saved," the classic ballad "You'll Never Walk Alone" and the traditional hymn "Amazing Grace."

Where No One Stands Alone is available on CD, digitally and as a vinyl LP. In addition, a limited-edition blue-vinyl LP and a cassette version of the album can be purchased exclusively at the Graceland online store.

Meanwhile, Lisa Marie will take part in a special "Where No One Stands Alone" concert event taking place Saturday, August 11, at 1 p.m. local time at the Graceland Soundstage in Memphis. The show is part of the just-launched Elvis Week 2018 celebration. Visit ElvisWeek.com for more details.

Frederic REGLAIN/Gamma-Rapho via Getty ImagesToday would have been the late Whitney Houston's 55th birthday, and in honor of the occasion, you can enjoy her music while you're picking up your afternoon Frappucino.

8,500 Starbucks stores nationwide are celebrating Whitney by playing a collection of 55 of her songs, assembled by her longtime musical director Rickey Minor.

You can enjoy the tunes by dropping by your local Starbucks, or you can access the playlist on Spotify.

The playlist includes every hit single in Whitney's catalog, including "Saving All My Love For You," "Greatest Love Of All," "So Emotional," "Where Do Broken Hearts Go," "I Will Always Love You" and "I'm Every Woman."

The playlist also features songs you don't hear as often, including live tracks, soundtrack tunes and deep cuts. Among them: "My Name Is Not Susan," "One Moment In Time," "Queen of the Night," her version of the "Star Spangled Banner," her duet with Enrique Iglesias, "Could I Have This Kiss Forever" and The Preacher's Wife soundtrack song "Joy to the World."

Frederic REGLAIN/Gamma-Rapho via Getty ImagesToday would have been the late Whitney Houston's 55th birthday, and in honor of the occasion, you can enjoy her music while you're picking up your afternoon Frappucino.

8,500 Starbucks stores nationwide are celebrating Whitney by playing a collection of 55 of her songs, assembled by her longtime musical director Rickey Minor.

You can enjoy the tunes by dropping by your local Starbucks, or you can access the playlist on Spotify.

The playlist includes every hit single in Whitney's catalog, including "Saving All My Love For You," "Greatest Love Of All," "So Emotional," "Where Do Broken Hearts Go," "I Will Always Love You" and "I'm Every Woman."

The playlist also features songs you don't hear as often, including live tracks, soundtrack tunes and deep cuts. Among them: "My Name Is Not Susan," "One Moment In Time," "Queen of the Night," her version of the "Star Spangled Banner," her duet with Enrique Iglesias, "Could I Have This Kiss Forever" and The Preacher's Wife soundtrack song "Joy to the World."

]]>"Pretty Woman: The Musical" soundtrack, with songs written by Bryan Adams, coming next monthhttp://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6034386e048928067126e89a156f26c7
Thu, 09 Aug 2018 14:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/6034386e048928067126e89a156f26c7PRNewsfoto/PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICALBryan Adams appeared on NBC's Today show on Thursday to announce plans for the release of the original Broadway cast recording of Pretty Woman: The Musical, the new production for which he wrote the music.

The digital version of the soundtrack arrives September 21, but if you pre-order it, you'll get an instant download of the song "I Can't Go Back," which Adams performed on Today along with the show's cast, including star Samantha Barks.

The song is also available for streaming at all digital service providers. Physical CD versions of the album will hit stores on October 16.

Bryan co-wrote the songs for the musical with his longtime songwriting partner Jim Vallance. The late Garry Marshall, who directed the movie Pretty Woman, had written the show's book. The production will open Thursday, August 16, at Broadway's Nederlander Theatre.

In its review of the musical, which had its premiere in Chicago in March, Time Out fittingly wrote, "Missing it would be a big mistake. Big. HUGE!"

]]>PRNewsfoto/PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICALBryan Adams appeared on NBC's Today show on Thursday to announce plans for the release of the original Broadway cast recording of Pretty Woman: The Musical, the new production for which he wrote the music.

The digital version of the soundtrack arrives September 21, but if you pre-order it, you'll get an instant download of the song "I Can't Go Back," which Adams performed on Today along with the show's cast, including star Samantha Barks.

The song is also available for streaming at all digital service providers. Physical CD versions of the album will hit stores on October 16.

Bryan co-wrote the songs for the musical with his longtime songwriting partner Jim Vallance. The late Garry Marshall, who directed the movie Pretty Woman, had written the show's book. The production will open Thursday, August 16, at Broadway's Nederlander Theatre.

In its review of the musical, which had its premiere in Chicago in March, Time Out fittingly wrote, "Missing it would be a big mistake. Big. HUGE!"

]]>Ex-KISS guitarist Ace Frehley releases new song; unveils details about upcoming solo album, "Spaceman"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/400055edc429ad86d68d9848f8a84176
Thu, 09 Aug 2018 12:30:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/400055edc429ad86d68d9848f8a84176Entertainment OneAce Frehley released a brand-new song on Thursday called "Rockin' with the Boys," and the founding KISS guitarist also has unveiled details about his forthcoming eighth solo album, Spaceman, due out October 19.

"Rockin' with the Boys" is an updated version of a song that Frehley wrote during his days in KISS in the 1970s, about the grind of a touring musician. The track is available is a digital single and via streaming services.

Fans who pre-order Spaceman will receive the track as an instant free download, along with a previously released song that will appear on the album, "Bronx Boy." You also can check out "Rockin' with the Boys" at Frehley's official YouTube channel.

Spaceman features nine new recordings, including a cover of the 1986 Eddie Money hit "I Wanna Go Back" and tunes called "Without You I'm Nothing" and "Your Wish Is My Command" that were co-written by Frehley's ex-KISS band mate Gene Simmons. Simmons also contributes his bass talents to those two songs; in addition, he suggested that Ace title his new album Spaceman.

Frehley, meanwhile, played bass on the remaining seven songs on the album, in addition to delivering his trademark guitar licks throughout the entire record.

Spaceman is a follow-up to Ace's 2016 covers album, Origins, Vol. 1, and is his first collection of mostly original material since 2014's Space Invader.

Frehley has a number of upcoming U.S. concerts on his tour itinerary, and he'll also be opening for Simmons' solo band at three shows in Australia in late August. In addition, Ace has a series of early-September gigs in Japan, and he'll be among the artists performing on the KISS Kruise VIII event this fall.

]]>Entertainment OneAce Frehley released a brand-new song on Thursday called "Rockin' with the Boys," and the founding KISS guitarist also has unveiled details about his forthcoming eighth solo album, Spaceman, due out October 19.

"Rockin' with the Boys" is an updated version of a song that Frehley wrote during his days in KISS in the 1970s, about the grind of a touring musician. The track is available is a digital single and via streaming services.

Fans who pre-order Spaceman will receive the track as an instant free download, along with a previously released song that will appear on the album, "Bronx Boy." You also can check out "Rockin' with the Boys" at Frehley's official YouTube channel.

Spaceman features nine new recordings, including a cover of the 1986 Eddie Money hit "I Wanna Go Back" and tunes called "Without You I'm Nothing" and "Your Wish Is My Command" that were co-written by Frehley's ex-KISS band mate Gene Simmons. Simmons also contributes his bass talents to those two songs; in addition, he suggested that Ace title his new album Spaceman.

Frehley, meanwhile, played bass on the remaining seven songs on the album, in addition to delivering his trademark guitar licks throughout the entire record.

Spaceman is a follow-up to Ace's 2016 covers album, Origins, Vol. 1, and is his first collection of mostly original material since 2014's Space Invader.

Frehley has a number of upcoming U.S. concerts on his tour itinerary, and he'll also be opening for Simmons' solo band at three shows in Australia in late August. In addition, Ace has a series of early-September gigs in Japan, and he'll be among the artists performing on the KISS Kruise VIII event this fall.

]]>Rod Stewart's still a road warrior: "I love being up there...I wouldn't have it any other way"http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/b924653f606d481b2a91e9f8e84c44c9
Thu, 09 Aug 2018 10:00:00 -0500http://www.oldies1480.net/music-news/b924653f606d481b2a91e9f8e84c44c9Credit: RankinRod Stewart is currently out on a headlining tour with support from Cyndi Lauper. While the two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Famer adores hitting the road, he says there's one thing that makes him prefer his Las Vegas residency over a regular nationwide trek: It's much more efficient.

"The only thing I don't like about touring -- and believe me, I do love it -- is the downtime," Sir Rod tells ABC Radio. "It's a hell of a lot of wasted time in traveling and everything like that. But I wouldn't have it any other way!"

On the plus side, Stewart says when he's visiting different cities, "the songs take on a different meaning, 'cause they get different reactions from the crowd." When he's in Vegas, he says, "I have a bit of a déjà vu moment, normally -- 'cause I see the same people in the front row."

During his current tour, Rod is performing all his big hits, plus a few new songs from his upcoming album, Blood Red Roses, due out September 28.

He tells ABC Radio that it can be "really, really difficult" to get his fans enthusiastic about his new material. Describing what it was like singing one new number at his New York City show this week, Rod laughs, "I said, 'Just make [believe] you've listened to "Maggie May" and give it a big round of applause!'"

As for "Maggie," she's in the set list, of course, but Stewart says these days, he most enjoys singing another new song -- a highly emotional ballad called "Grace" -- as well as the blues classic "I'd Rather Go Blind."

"But I love singing all the songs," he insists. "I love being up there. You can tell!"

Stewart's on tour through October; on November 21, he'll resume his Las Vegas residency.

]]>Credit: RankinRod Stewart is currently out on a headlining tour with support from Cyndi Lauper. While the two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Famer adores hitting the road, he says there's one thing that makes him prefer his Las Vegas residency over a regular nationwide trek: It's much more efficient.

"The only thing I don't like about touring -- and believe me, I do love it -- is the downtime," Sir Rod tells ABC Radio. "It's a hell of a lot of wasted time in traveling and everything like that. But I wouldn't have it any other way!"

On the plus side, Stewart says when he's visiting different cities, "the songs take on a different meaning, 'cause they get different reactions from the crowd." When he's in Vegas, he says, "I have a bit of a déjà vu moment, normally -- 'cause I see the same people in the front row."

During his current tour, Rod is performing all his big hits, plus a few new songs from his upcoming album, Blood Red Roses, due out September 28.

He tells ABC Radio that it can be "really, really difficult" to get his fans enthusiastic about his new material. Describing what it was like singing one new number at his New York City show this week, Rod laughs, "I said, 'Just make [believe] you've listened to "Maggie May" and give it a big round of applause!'"

As for "Maggie," she's in the set list, of course, but Stewart says these days, he most enjoys singing another new song -- a highly emotional ballad called "Grace" -- as well as the blues classic "I'd Rather Go Blind."

"But I love singing all the songs," he insists. "I love being up there. You can tell!"

Stewart's on tour through October; on November 21, he'll resume his Las Vegas residency.

Warner Bros.Cher has now released full details of her upcoming ABBA tribute album.

Appropriately titled Dancing Queen, the disc will arrive September 28. If you pre-order the album, you'll get an instant download of Cher's version of "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)" immediately.

In a statement about the project, Cher says, "I've always liked ABBA and saw the original Mamma Mia musical on Broadway three times. After filming Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, I was reminded again of what great and timeless songs they wrote and started thinking, 'Why not do an album of their music?'"

She adds, "The songs were harder to sing than I imagined but I'm so happy with how the music came out. I'm really excited for people to hear it. It's a perfect time.”

The album is just the latest project for Cher, who also has the musical based on her life, The Cher Show, coming to Broadway on December 3. She'll tour Australia and New Zealand in September, and has an ongoing residency at MGM Resorts. On top of all that, she'll receive a Kennedy Center Honor on December 2 in Washington, D.C.

As previously reported, here's the Dancing Queen track list

"Dancing Queen""Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)""The Name Of The Game""SOS""Waterloo""Mamma Mia""Chiquitita""Fernando""The Winner Takes It All""One Of Us"

Warner Bros.Cher has now released full details of her upcoming ABBA tribute album.

Appropriately titled Dancing Queen, the disc will arrive September 28. If you pre-order the album, you'll get an instant download of Cher's version of "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)" immediately.

In a statement about the project, Cher says, "I've always liked ABBA and saw the original Mamma Mia musical on Broadway three times. After filming Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, I was reminded again of what great and timeless songs they wrote and started thinking, 'Why not do an album of their music?'"

She adds, "The songs were harder to sing than I imagined but I'm so happy with how the music came out. I'm really excited for people to hear it. It's a perfect time.”

The album is just the latest project for Cher, who also has the musical based on her life, The Cher Show, coming to Broadway on December 3. She'll tour Australia and New Zealand in September, and has an ongoing residency at MGM Resorts. On top of all that, she'll receive a Kennedy Center Honor on December 2 in Washington, D.C.

As previously reported, here's the Dancing Queen track list

"Dancing Queen""Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)""The Name Of The Game""SOS""Waterloo""Mamma Mia""Chiquitita""Fernando""The Winner Takes It All""One Of Us"

During the event, the former Beatles legend was presented with the Capitol Icon Award by the record label's chairman and CEO, Steve Barnett.

The Capitol Congress is a daylong conference at which employees brings together employees and executives from Capitol and its parent company, Universal Music Group, as well as some of the label's biggest artists. It features a variety of presentations, speeches, performances and interview sessions.

In addition to receiving the Icon award, McCartney was interviewed by comic Marc Maron for what will air as an upcoming installment of Maron's WTF podcast. Among the topics Sir Paul discussed was his reaction to the Fab Four song "Helter Skelter," which he wrote, supposedly being tied in with cult leader Charles Manson's attempts to incite his followers to commit murder.

According to Variety, McCartney said he remembered being "suddenly singled out for being the soundtrack to a murderer." He then explained, "For years I wouldn't do that song. I felt like if I did it, it would be a victory for [Manson]. Then I thought, 'Wait a minute, I wrote it!'"

Paul also was asked about the supposed competition between The Beatles and The Rolling Stones during the early days of the bands.

"They're great," he said of The Stones. "We go back a long way and there was never really a rivalry."

During the event, the former Beatles legend was presented with the Capitol Icon Award by the record label's chairman and CEO, Steve Barnett.

The Capitol Congress is a daylong conference at which employees brings together employees and executives from Capitol and its parent company, Universal Music Group, as well as some of the label's biggest artists. It features a variety of presentations, speeches, performances and interview sessions.

In addition to receiving the Icon award, McCartney was interviewed by comic Marc Maron for what will air as an upcoming installment of Maron's WTF podcast. Among the topics Sir Paul discussed was his reaction to the Fab Four song "Helter Skelter," which he wrote, supposedly being tied in with cult leader Charles Manson's attempts to incite his followers to commit murder.

According to Variety, McCartney said he remembered being "suddenly singled out for being the soundtrack to a murderer." He then explained, "For years I wouldn't do that song. I felt like if I did it, it would be a victory for [Manson]. Then I thought, 'Wait a minute, I wrote it!'"

Paul also was asked about the supposed competition between The Beatles and The Rolling Stones during the early days of the bands.

"They're great," he said of The Stones. "We go back a long way and there was never really a rivalry."